Matt Molloy; an Authentic Journalist in action.

I grew up in Manchester, Connecticut and went to Manchester High School. I was definitely the “AV nerd” when I was younger, but embraced it. I started with reading the morning announcements on closed circuit TV in middle school – and then joined my high school’s TV station.

What inspired you to be a journalist? Early experiences worth sharing?

I was incredibly lucky to get an early start in TV news. My high school offered a TV program and we produced a weekly newscast. That’s when I got my first taste of TV and knew it was for me. Through that program I also reported for the local FOX station’s student news program. I went on to Boston University where I studied Broadcast Journalism under Professor Jim Thistle. He was was a legend in Boston – one of those old school news guys – who was News Director at every station in the city at one point in his career. Learning my craft under Professor Thistle is one of the highlights of my career.

Talk about a time where you have faced adversity/conflict and have triumphed.

Breaking into the industry after college wasn’t easy. I sent out more than 100 resume tapes. Yes, tapes. VHS if you remember those. I finally landed an interview 6 months after graduating at the ABC affiliate in Watertown, NY. I thought I went well, but didn’t hear anything. During this time I learned persistence is key and not to get down on myself. It can be defeating looking for that first job, but I didn’t give up. I kept following up and sending out more tapes to other stations. Eventually, I got a call back from the News Director in Watertown and the job was mine. I picked up my life and moved 6 hours away from my family to start my career. Scary? Yup. Worth it? Definitely.

What do you believe sets you apart from other journalists?

As journalists we are all storytellers, but we each find unique ways to tell those stories. People appreciate authenticity and if that comes through in your reporting I think it makes you a better journalist. It sounds cliché, but I think being yourself sets you apart.

Do you have other interests or hobbies?

I’m a fitness addict. I’m a CrossFit trainer and cycle instructor at my gym. When I’m not at work or working out, you’ll find me hanging out with my Boston Terrier Swarley.

I’m always looking for stories to tell, but on a daily basis you can catch me on Live @ 13WHAM. It’s our all-digital show I host with Scott Hetsko on Facebook and 13WHAM.com. It’s one of my favorite parts of my job because it’s a mix of a talk show, news and weather. We have a blast and can interact with viewers live on Facebook.

Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?

I hope I’m in a similar place that I am now, telling stories and really enjoying what I do.

What advice can you give to aspiring journalists?

Be persistent, challenge yourself and recognize you’re always growing as a journalist. Whether you’re just starting off – or 10 years into your career.

How can we follow along in your journey? Social media?

You can watch me on Facebook on Live @ 13WHAM and follow me on Twitter @mattmolloy

Talker of the Town is a continuation of conversations begun in three Democratic Chronicle blogs: Make City Schools Better, Unite Rochester and the Editorial Board.
Since February 2013, urban education has been the primary focus. Now, the flowering of topics is limited only by our imaginations.

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